Tag: Perry Common

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Volunteer opportunities for 18-25 years old with the Erdington Neighbourhood Network Scheme

ENNS meeting with local community groups at Perry Common Hall / Photograph supplied by WLCA

Words by Witton Lodge Community Association

Erdington Neighbourhood Network Scheme (ENNS) is looking for young people (18-25) who would like to volunteer with the constituency wide organisation and join their official funding panel.

Launched in 2019, ENNS funds and supports community groups and charities across Erdington – helping them to deliver a wide range of activities and services, from Castle Vale to Kingstanding.

From walking groups and mental health support to arts and craft sessions and coffee mornings, the ENNS has so far invested over £750,000 into local projects for people across Erdington – overseen by Witton Lodge Community Association (WLCA).

The ENNS is now looking for young adults to join their team of volunteers and sit on their funding panel, giving them valuable experience and a chance to get more involved in their community.

ENNS are particularly looking for people who are interested in supporting their local community by attending Funding Panel and Steering Group meetings every quarter. No previous experience is needed, just your willingness to get involved.

If you are aged 18-25 and ready to volunteer with the ENNS, or want to learn more about, then contact WLCA by emailing: [email protected]

What can the ENNS offer volunteers?

To make sure volunteers feel confident and supported in their role, ENNS will provide:

  • Full training and guidance on reading applications and making fair, informed decisions.
  • Reimbursement for any out of pocket expenses, including travel mileage and bus fares.
  • Invitations to community events, where you can connect with others and see the impact of your contribution,
  • Volunteer lunch in ENNS meetings, as a thank you for your time, energy, and commitment.

Why join the ENNS volunteer team?

Volunteering with ENNS means being part of a welcoming, inclusive community where your insights matter. You’ll help shape services that directly improve people’s lives, and you’ll meet great people along the way.

Overarching role and responsibilities of ENNS funding panel members

As a member of the ENNS funding panel your role is to support the investment of resources into and within the Erdington constituency, primarily for disabled adults and older adults.

Outside of Perry Common Hall / Photograph by Ed King

ENNS funding panel activities

Panel members meet four times a year (every three months) for up to three hours at Perry Common Community Hall. The funding panel will:

  • Receive and discuss reports on where investments have been made and where investments are needed (also referred to as mapping gaps)
  • Receive and discuss applications and where appropriate award micro and small grants up to £20,000
  • Support community organisations and groups in the delivery of services to disabled adults and older people (also referred to as community development and infrastructure need)

Who are the volunteers ENNS are looking for?

ENNS are particularly looking for people who are interested in supporting their local community. No previous experience is necessary as ENNS will:

  • Provide training and support in reading applications and making decisions about them.
  • Reimburse any out-of-pocket expenses (travel mileage, bus tickets)
  • Invite you to various community events and welcome you to our volunteer’s lunch.

Launched in 2019, the Erdington Neighbourhood Network Scheme (ENNS) is a portfolio of local community groups and activities – supporting over 50’s and adults living with disabilities.

To become and ENNS volunteer or lean more about the organisation email: ENNS [email protected]

For more on Witton Lodge Community Association, visit www.wittonlodge.org.uk

Witton Lodge Community Association is a leading partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Looking forward into 2026 with Witton Lodge Community Association

WLCA Chief Officer Afzal Hussain standing outside Wellbeing Hub on Erdington High Street / Photograph by Ed King

Words by Afzal Hussain – Chief Officer of Witton Lodge Community Association

Happy New Year, Erdington!

Now is a great time to set new goals and make those changes that you’ve been promising yourself. Many of us start the year thinking about new resolutions – whether that’s improving our health, learning new skills, finding a new job or getting more involved in the community.

Whatever your plans, now is the perfect moment to take action and Witton Lodge Community Association is here to support you.

If finding work or building your skills is on your list, then get in touch, we also have a project for our younger residents. WOW! is a fantastic programme that supports 18-21 year olds with training, guidance and opportunities to prepare them for the world of work. It’s a great way to open doors to new possibilities.

There are also exciting developments in local health services. The NHS is working towards introducing a Neighbourhood Health Service, designed to bring care closer to home and make it easier for people to access the support they need.

Your ideas and feedback are vital to shaping how this service works for our community so please get involved with ‘Community Voice’ and help create something that truly meets local needs.

Witton Lodge Community Association champions local community voices and we remain immensely grateful to our volunteers and local groups. Volunteers are the lifeblood of our communities, their time, energy and passion keep vital services running.

If you’re ready to take the plunge and become a volunteer, get in touch with us and we will work with you to make it happen.

For more on Witton Lodge Community Association, visit www.wittonlodge.org.uk

Witton Lodge Community Association is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Supporting young people’s hopes, dreams, and ambitions for the future with Urban Devotion Birmingham

Team from Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB) talking to young people / Photograph supplied by UDB

Words by Ash Porter, Volunteer Co-ordinator and Deputy Safeguarding Lead at Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB)

At this time of year many of us are inevitably drawn into thinking about what our dreams and goals are. What do you want to happen? What would you like to achieve? What are your dreams?

And it isn’t just adults who ask these questions. Children and young people across Erdington will be asking them too.

Last year UDB did a piece of research with over 110 young people, asking them questions about their dreams and ambitions for the future. We found that 88% of those questioned had goals or dreams for the future.

Some talked about traveling more, others about becoming musicians, and some simply wanted a family of their own one day. There was a vast range of dreams and hopes, all full of unique hope for the future.

At UDB we passionately believe that every young person is full of potential, and we want to see them work towards achieving these dreams. Schools play their part by educating and equipping young people. Families provide a home and support from which to build on.

At UDB we provide spaces for young people to grow in confidence and self-esteem, build lasting relationships, try new things and grow as individuals. All of this builds a foundation for young people to pursue their purpose and reach their full potential.

Do you know what the children and young people in your life dream of for their future, and is there any way you could help them achieve their dreams this year?

For more about UDB scan the QR code or visit www.urbandevotion.org

Urban Devotion Birmingham is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Workshops to help influence local healthcare with Witton Lodge Community Association

Words by Witton Lodge Community Association

Are you an Erdington or Sutton Coldfield resident with an active interest in the health and wellbeing of your community?

If the answer is yes, then Witton Lodge Community Association is giving you the opportunity to influence the future of local healthcare provision.

We are hosting two North Locality Health Progress Workshops later this month and would love as many residents as possible from across our communities to participate.

The North Locality Health Plan is designed to actively tackle health inequalities across North Birmingham.

To make this plan genuinely effective, it needs to be rooted in the lived experience of the people it’s for – our residents.

Be part of the conversation

  • Tuesday, December 16th from 11am to 2pm at The Trinity Centre Church Hill, Sutton Coldfield – To book onto the SUTTON COLDFIELD event, please click here.
  • Wednesday, December 17th from 10.30am to 12noon at Perry Common Community Hall at 87 Witton Lodge Road, Erdington – To book onto the ERDINGTON event, please click here.

Witton Lodge Community Association is working closely with key health providers and other community groups to deliver this project.

Jo Townsend, our Communications and Community Engagement Manager, stresses: “We really encourage all residents from across Erdington and Sutton Coldfield to join us at these events and share their insights on their own experiences and insights to create practical solutions that improve health for everyone.”

The future of community healthcare

The workshops will allow residents to hear the latest updates on the plan and find out exactly what’s being proposed for their neighbourhoods.

“They are a dynamic platform for community collaboration,” added Jo, “It’s a chance for residents from across North Birmingham to ensure the health plan genuinely considers people’s views.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming all residents to take an active role in creating a healthier, stronger future for themselves and our local communities.”

To ensure we can accommodate everyone, please book your place as soon as possible by emailing [email protected] or scanning the QR code in the relevant graphic above.

For more on Witton Lodge Community Association, visit www.wittonlodge.org.uk

Witton Lodge Community Association is a leading partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.

 

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Listening to and supporting young people across Erdington with Urban Devotion Birmingham

Youth engagement with Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB) / Photograph supplied by UDB

Words by Callum Hodson, Community Activity Developer at Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB)

At Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB), we believe that listening to young people is one of the most powerful ways to build a stronger, more hopeful community.

When we listen, we don’t just hear words; we understand experiences, dreams and challenges that shape the future of Erdington.

Our recent research found that 85% of young people in Erdington enjoy living in the area, showing how deeply connected they feel to their community. But we’ve also heard that many struggle with low confidence and limited aspirations.

Listening helps us see beyond the surface and respond with compassion, opportunity and support.

At UDB, we are here, walking alongside young people every day. Through our weekly drop-in sessions, we offer safe spaces to talk, create and grow. These conversations are where change begins.

When young people feel heard, they begin to believe that their voice matters, and that belief can transform lives.

With 37% of young people in Erdington facing mental health challenges, listening is more vital than ever. It takes empathy, time and community effort, because it truly takes a village to help young people thrive.

So here’s a challenge: Is there a young person you know who needs someone to listen, to feel heard and seen?

Your time and attention could make all the difference. Together, we can ensure every young voice in Erdington is valued and every young person feels they belong.

For more about UDB scan the QR code or visit www.urbandevotion.org

Follow UDB’s social media on Instagram or Facebook (@urbandevotion).

Urban Devotion Birmingham is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.

 

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Stronger together – why community engagement is vital for Erdington

Community Voice session run by WLCA at Perry Common Community Hall / Photograph supplied by WLCA

Words by Witton Lodge Community Association

With its rich tapestry of cultures and backgrounds, Erdington thrives on its diversity. While this multicultural makeup is a huge strength it also highlights the need for robust community engagement.

When people from all walks of life actively participate together, it doesn’t just feel good, it can become the engine for positive, lasting change across our constituency.

Community engagement in areas like Erdington is about more than just attendance at meetings. It’s about ensuring every voice is heard and valued, regardless of language, origin or background.

Our Community Voice project provides residents across the area with a platform to influence and create services to help tackle issues impacting people and communities, head-on. This united viewpoint and co-production of services is far more powerful than any initiative simply handed down from authority figures and decision makers.

That is why, since being established in May 2024 by Witton Lodge Community Association, the Community Voice initiative has proven to be a great vehicle for empowering people to make the changes they want to see happen. New initiatives around housing, arts, health and youth are currently being developed.

This approach ensures that efforts are impactful and sustainable and is helping to create a unified, supportive network working for the greater good of Erdington.

Community Voice is yours. Get involved and make things happen.

To find out more about Community Voice or to get involved with the project, please call Steve Sharma on (0121) 382 1930 or email: [email protected]

For more on Witton Lodge Community Association, visit www.wittonlodge.org.uk

Witton Lodge Community Association is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Supporting children and families with exciting activities at Lakeside Children’s Centre

UDB Cooking Club at Lakeside Children’s Centre / Photograph supplied by UDB

Words by Ash Porter, Volunteer Co-ordinator at Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB)

In the heart of the Wyrley Birch Estate there is a wonderful children’s hub called Lakeside Children’s Centre and on Tuesday afternoon you’ll find the place overflowing with UDB’s team running sessions.

From 3:30pm-4:30pm there’s a brilliant children and families session. Here our team create a safe space for families and primary school children to play, eat our famous toasties, and create lasting friendships.

Our young people in secondary school have their own space from 5:00pm-6:00pm where they too are welcomed and have a space for themselves. These sessions are both free, and open access. We’d love to see you there.

We also run two developmental groups, Cooking Club and SPARK, aimed at young people we work closely with.

At Cooking Club they’ve learnt how bake plenty of sweet goods, but more recently have stepped into learning to prepare full meals. Last Christmas they were involved in cooking a Christmas dinner for over 50 people from the community.

SPARK is a music-based activity, where some of our young people are exploring their musical skills and even learning to write their own songs. One girl, when she first joined SPARK, was shy and could barely even sing out loud to the group. A few months later, she signed up to sing at her school summer showcase.

As young people learn tangible skills and are encouraged in their endeavours. We see them grow as people and in their self-esteem. On Tuesdays at Lakeside, we see transformation, one life at a time.

For more about UDB scan the QR code or visit www.urbandevotion.org

Follow UDB’s social media on Instagram or Facebook (@urbandevotion).

Urban Devotion Birmingham is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Nominate your unsung heroes for a King’s Award – free information session on Monday 20 October

Words by Witton Lodge Community Association

If you’re ready to shine a deserved light on the incredible work volunteers do in our community, you need to join us for an essential information session on the King’s Award for Voluntary Service (KAVS) —the highest and most prestigious honour a volunteer-led organisation in the UK can achieve!

This special event is free to attend and will be held from 1-3pm on Monday 20 October – at Hays, One Colmore Square, Birmingham, B4 6AJ.

To book your place at this event please click HERE.

The session is brought to you in partnership by Birmingham Voluntary Service Council (BVSC) and Witton Lodge Community Association (WLCA) and will be a definitive guide for understanding and securing this ultimate recognition for Birmingham’s finest volunteer groups.

This session is the perfect way to learn more about the KAVS, including:

  • The criteria that makes a volunteer group eligible.
  • How and who you can nominate to receive this esteemed lifetime recognition.
  • Hearing directly from BVSC and WLCA about the significance of this award and the nomination process.

KAVS is issued once a year to celebrate groups that have made a significant impact and a lasting difference to people and places. Previous sessions, like one recently held at Perry Common Community Hall, have highlighted the prestige and legacy of the award for the groups that receive it.

If you are a Birmingham resident, or work in the city and know of any amazing volunteer groups who deserve this recognition, this is your chance to give something back to the unsung heroes who work so hard and tirelessly to make life better for all of us.

For more information on the KAVS, visit the official website at www.kavs.dcms.gov.uk

To book your place at this event which takes place at Hays, One Colmore Square Birmingham B4 6AJ, from 1-3pm, please click HERE.

For more on Witton Lodge Community Association, visit www.wittonlodge.org.uk

Witton Lodge Community Association is a leading partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS: Witton Lodge Community Quiz returns to Perry Common – Friday 3 October

Words by Witton Lodge Community Association

Guess what’s making its long-awaited return to thrill and delight all in one night?

That’s right, the beloved Witton Lodge Community Quiz – held at Perry Common Hall on Friday 3 October, as organised by Witton Lodge Community Association (WLCA).

So, dust off thinking caps and refill your lucky pens for some quizzical fun with friends, family and neighbours.

After an absence of more than three years our popular brainteasing bonanza is back bigger and better than ever.

Running from 7pm to 8.30pm, this is your chance to enjoy a laugh-out-loud evening for young and old alike. You can expect rounds packed with fun twists and cheeky surprises.

So why not come and pit your wits against some of our community’s very own Stephen Fry’s and Carol Vorderman’s.

Perry Common Community Hall / Photograph by Ed King

The Witton Lodge Community Quiz is £2 per person with payment on the door. Teams of up to six people are allowed with children aged under 10 admitted free.

You can’t afford to miss the quiz that’s more than just a night of questions and answers, it’s a night of connection, laughter sprinkled with a little friendly competition.

For more on Witton Lodge Community Association, visit www.wittonlodge.org.uk

Witton Lodge Community Association is a leading partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.

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COMMUNITY ANCHORS:  Supporting and celebrating young people at Urban Devotion Birmingham

Urban Devotion Birmingham team photo – summer 24 / Photograph supplied by UDB

Words by Emma Winmill, Co-Director at Urban Devotion Birmingham (UDB) / Pic supplied by UDB

As we head into autumn, we’re celebrating all the children and young people stepping into the new term with courage – and those who cheer them on.

A new term can bring a jumble of emotions: excitement, nerves, fresh opportunities, and the challenge of getting back into routines. It’s normal to feel a mix of things all at once, and sometimes it takes a little time to settle in.

At Urban Devotion Birmingham, we want children and young people to know that whatever this season holds, there’s always space to slow down, connect, and be themselves.

Our free drop-ins continue across Erdington, with games, sports, crafts, PS5, and plenty of snacks. They are a chance to have fun, try new activities, and meet friends in a safe and welcoming space. Everyone is welcome, whether it’s your first time or you’ve been coming for years.

These sessions are a reminder that taking a moment to play, relax, and connect can make a real difference as the term gets underway.

We have a variety of activities in Erdington for young people, children, and families.

Scan the QR code or visit www.urbandevotion.org/activities to find your nearest session and keep up with last-minute updates on Instagram or Facebook (@urbandevotion).

For more on Urban Devotion Birmingham visit www.urbandevotion.org

Urban Devotion Birmingham is a key partner in the Erdington Local COMMUNITY ANCHORS programme, supporting independent local and community journalism.